Happy Birthday to Oprah Winfrey! She’s a one of a kind icon, media mogul and mentor to millions of strangers through her decades of endless humanitarianism. Now that she’s reached the huge milestone of age 60, Oprah is showing no signs of slowing down. Her global reach is so powerful speaking the language of love, positive energy and courage.
Every afternoon for 25 years, she entered into homes all across the world providing empowering messages based on her own personal teachings and sharing a bond with unforgettable guests through their testimonies in everyday life. A simple concept, yet brilliant approach; just connect through the world through memorable conversation. Oprah’s even called herself a mother to many without every birthing any. I can attest to that.
Although I do not know her personally, Oprah has played a pivotal part in shaping my career path.
By the spring of 2011, I was stuck in a rut. I was in a unhealthy relationship. My new diet was failing miserably and I was going through the motions at a job that was nothing more than just a job. I hadn’t even been out of school for one year and was already feeling the weight of inadequacy. Tyler was going nowhere fast.
It was evident that I was the guest of honor at my very own pity party. Nothing was going my why and I couldn’t quite figure out why.
The final season of “The Oprah Winfrey” show had finally approached and I couldn’t bear seeing my idol go off the air, let alone knowing that I was failing miserably in following in her footsteps. I’d always wanted to be the next Oprah however, that dream was no where in sight.
One night I was sitting at home feeling sorry for myself and decided to watch the series finale of her talk show. I was eating out of an entire container of ice cream (no judgement) and crying because, 1). I was eating out of an ice container like a sloth and 2). touched by Oprah’s inspiring road to stardom. She truly shaped a part of my childhood and now it was over! *This sounds uber dramatic, but it really happened*
Right when I was about to really breakdown, Oprah turned to the TV and said these exact words, “Nobody but you is responsible for your life. It doesn’t matter what your mama did; it doesn’t matter what your daddy didn’t do. You are responsible for your life. You are responsible for the energy that you create for yourself”.
And I said aloud, while wiping the tears from my eye, “you are right Oprah, I am in control of me”.
What happens next is ancient history.
Nearly three years later: I am a successful news producer, stronger in my faith, dropped 70 lbs and quite pleased with the direction of my love life. It’s funny how a few words can change the course of one’s life. This may all sound funny, but just hearing Oprah’s encouraging testimony of perseverance made me realize my OWN strength. She’s proof that little girls like me can change the world with the power of my words and positive energy. I can only go up from here.
For that, Oprah will always be a part of my story.